KAMIAH — A short-term road construction project in Idaho County is set to begin, bringing temporary detours and minor travel disruptions as crews work to improve roadway safety in the area.
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The Idaho County Road and Bridge Department has announced that construction will take place along the stretch from Friendship Lane to Harrisburg, with work starting March 23. The project is funded through a combination of state support and county matching funds and is expected to be completed within two to five days, depending on conditions.
During active construction hours — from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. — motorists will be redirected through a designated detour route connecting Rupp Road to Harrisburg Loop. Officials say the detour is necessary to ensure both worker safety and efficient completion of the project.
While the timeframe is relatively short, drivers in the Kamiah area should plan for slight delays and allow extra travel time, particularly during peak daytime hours.
The first phase of the project will address hazards left behind by a previous windstorm, including the removal of damaged trees along the roadway.
“The first step is tree removal of the two trees that snapped off in the windstorm last year,” said Von Bargen. “We realize it is an inconvenience, but the result will be a safer road for the public to travel.”
Officials emphasized that while the inconvenience may be noticeable for a few days, the improvements are aimed at preventing future risks and enhancing long-term road safety.
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This type of short-duration infrastructure work is common in rural counties, where weather events such as windstorms can create lingering hazards that require targeted intervention months later. Tree removal and roadside clearing are often prioritized because fallen or weakened trees can pose risks to vehicles, especially during high winds or storms.
Beyond immediate safety concerns, projects like this also help extend the lifespan of rural roadways by preventing debris-related damage and improving visibility for drivers. In areas like Kamiah, where roads serve as key connectors for local communities, even minor upgrades can significantly impact daily travel reliability.
County officials typically aim to complete such projects quickly to minimize disruption, which is why the estimated completion window is just a few days. However, variables such as weather, equipment availability, and unforeseen site conditions can influence the final timeline.
Residents and commuters are encouraged to remain alert in work zones, follow posted signage, and adhere to any temporary traffic controls in place throughout the project duration.
Originally reported by Cathy Law / Idaho County Free Press in Idaho County Free Press.
